As dengue cases surge across India, many patients and their families are turning to unconventional remedies such as goat milk and papaya leaves, believing these will cure the viral infection. While such remedies are widely circulated on social media and often embraced as quick fixes, doctors caution that these practices should not replace medical treatment.

Speaking to Drug Today Medical Times, Dr. Rajat Kant Jain, Senior Physician at Kailash Deepak Hospital in Delhi, shared his perspective on the issue.

“We don’t outright deny the consumption of goat milk or papaya leaves,” Dr. Jain explained.

“But we strongly advise patients not to rely solely on these. They might provide a placebo effect, offering patients and families a sense of psychological comfort. However, supportive medical treatment is crucial for managing dengue.”

Dr. Jain emphasised that dengue is a viral infection, and its symptoms—including high fever, body aches, vomiting, headaches, and a drop in platelet count—need to be managed through proper hydration and medical care.

“Dengue is time-bound. Its symptoms tend to subside on their own as the body fights the virus. Even if a patient consumes goat milk or papaya leaves, the disease will take its natural course. The misconception that these home remedies can drastically improve platelet count is misinformation primarily spread through platforms like WhatsApp.”

Understanding the Phases of Dengue: From Mild Symptoms to Life-Threatening Conditions

Dengue fever can present in three distinct stages. In the first phase, patients experience high fever and body aches, but generally start to recover after a few days.

The second phase, known as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, is marked by rashes, internal bleeding, and a drop in platelet count, which can become a serious medical condition.

In the third and most severe phase, known as Dengue Shock Syndrome, patients may suffer from dangerously low blood pressure, leading to a life-threatening situation.

“During the last two phases, immediate hospitalisation is critical,” Dr. Jain warned.

“Patients in these stages may require platelet transfusions to prevent severe complications. While some people think that taking goat milk or papaya leaves will help, these home remedies will not address the underlying severity of the condition. It is crucial for patients experiencing symptoms like bleeding or persistent vomiting to seek professional medical help without delay.”

Supportive Treatment and Nutrition: The Key to Recovery

For managing dengue, supportive treatment is key, according to Dr. Jain. This includes maintaining adequate hydration and ensuring a balanced intake of nutrients.

“We recommend patients consume fresh fruits, juices, and other liquids, as proper nutrition supports faster recovery,” he added.

Dr. Jain also highlighted the risks of self-medication or relying on home remedies without professional consultation.

“Dengue can cause rapid health deterioration. Without proper guidance, patients and their families may fail to recognize early warning signs, leading to complications that could have been avoided.”

Platelet Count and the Danger of Misconceptions

A common misconception is that a drop in platelet count is exclusive to dengue. Dr. Jain clarified that platelet counts can decrease in other conditions like typhoid and malaria, but not to the same extent as in dengue.

“In dengue, platelet levels can drop precipitously. When they fall below 30,000, the risk of bleeding increases significantly. Normally, platelet counts should range between 1.5 to 2.5 lakh, and any substantial drop warrants immediate medical attention,” he said.

Prevention: The Best Defense Against Dengue

Currently, there is no approved vaccine for dengue. Preventive measures such as wearing full-sleeve clothing, using mosquito repellents, and maintaining a clean environment to prevent mosquito breeding are the most effective ways to protect against the disease.

Dr. Jain urged the public to focus on verified medical information and avoid succumbing to myths propagated on social media.

“Medical treatment and professional advice should always be the cornerstone of managing dengue. Misconceptions can be dangerous and delay the right course of action, putting patients at risk.”

With dengue cases on the rise, it is imperative for both patients and caregivers to stay informed and seek timely medical attention for effective treatment and recovery.